Ex-Formula 1 driver Johnny Herbert believes AlphaTauri have made a mistake by signing Daniel Ricciardo for 2024, with the Briton believing that Red Bull reserve driver Liam Lawson is their “future”.
It was confirmed at the Japanese Grand Prix that AlphaTauri would be represented by Yuki Tsunoda and Ricciardo next season, whilst Lawson will return to Red Bull as their reserve driver.
This is despite the New Zealander having been extraordinary since stepping in for the injured Ricciardo back at the Dutch Grand Prix, with Herbert in particular having been left very “impressed”.
When Nyck de Vries was axed from Red Bull’s sister team, Lawson wasn’t promoted as the Austrians didn’t want to introduce him mid-season, given how challenging that is for any driver.
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However, he’s instantly settled into the team and into F1 since Zandvoort, with him already being an F1 points scorer.
He claimed P9 at the Singapore Grand Prix and even progressed into Q3 ahead of the night race, further highlighting his raw talent.
Even the likes of ex-F1 team owner Eddie Jordan has been left stunned by Lawson, who the Irishman thinks should be the driver to replace Sergio Perez when he leaves Red Bull.
Lawson is seen by many as Red Bull’s “future”, especially as retirement continues to be on the cards for Max Verstappen in 2028.
With all of that in mind, Herbert doesn’t understand why Ricciardo has been chosen over him, as it will simply delay his progress.
“I’m impressed with what I’ve seen from Liam Lawson, because in a very short space of time he has been able to adjust to the bubble of F1,” Herbert wrote.
“What I like is that ability to jump in and do the job straight away. It’s actually a rare thing when someone gets a hold of a car and does what we actually expect of them.
“Lawson has shown speed when there’s pressure because he’s been racing to prove he’s worthy of keeping the drive. He hasn’t had the luxury of time to settle in.
“In Singapore, at what most drivers say is the most difficult track on the calendar both physically and mentally, he was very impressive and scored his first points in his third grand prix.
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“Teammate Yuki Tsunoda has done a good job too – but I feel Liam already has taken control at AlphaTauri. For me, he earned a seat for 2024.
“I don’t agree with the decision of AlphaTauri to bring Daniel Ricciardo back for next year.
“Is he the future? No, Liam is the future.”